Pale Blue

Kenshi Yonezu's song 'Pale Blue' is a poignant exploration of unrequited love and the enduring pain that accompanies it. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and melancholy, as the narrator reflects on a love that was never fully realized. The repetition of 'ずっと ずっと ずっと' (forever, forever, forever) emphasizes the persistent nature of these feelings, suggesting that the narrator has been in love for a long time and continues to be, despite the separation.

The song's imagery is rich with metaphors that illustrate the emotional landscape of the narrator. For instance, the '水もやらず枯れたエーデルワイス' (Edelweiss that withered without water) symbolizes a love that was neglected and ultimately faded away. Similarly, the '黒ずみ出す耳飾り' (earrings turning black) and 'ひどく竹のずれたオートクール' (badly misaligned haute couture) represent the deterioration and misalignment in the relationship. These metaphors paint a vivid picture of a love that was once beautiful but has now become a source of pain and regret.

Culturally, the song taps into the universal theme of unrequited love, a common motif in Japanese literature and music. The narrator's desire to be part of the beloved's future and the pain of not being able to express their feelings resonate deeply with listeners who have experienced similar emotions. The line '私あなたに恋をした花束と一緒に' (I fell in love with you along with a bouquet) encapsulates the bittersweet nature of this love, combining the beauty of the bouquet with the sorrow of unfulfilled affection.

'Pale Blue' is a testament to Kenshi Yonezu's ability to capture complex emotions through his music. The song's haunting melody and evocative lyrics create a powerful emotional experience, leaving listeners with a sense of the enduring nature of love and the pain of separation.